This is one of the best pieces of writing this site has ever posted. It hit on so many things...the fantasies we all have about running with the pros (admit it!), the thoughts about dropping out in the middle of a race, and the never appreciating your accomplishments in your prime (because the next race will always be faster).

It wouldn't have mattered where cassidy is from in the article but the fact that he is from Staten Island makes the story all the sweeter.

I enjoyed at article, too. I do, however take exception to the author characterizing Meb as 'arguably the greatest American marathoner ever.'

Meb is great and nothing should diminish his great and honorable career. But without question, Frank Shorter is the greatest American marathoner ever. Olympic gold and silver (beaten by a drug cheat) along with three world #1 rankings.

Shorter may also be the most influential as well. His Munich victory is considered by many to be the start of the running boom in the United Stated.